Salix magnifica (male)

A very distinct willow; thought to be a Magnolia when first discovered in China by Wilson in 1909 due to the splendid un-Salix-like foliage. Forms a hardy large shrub with broad leaves, emerging maroon-tinted and turning grey-green, sometimes up to 20cm long and 13 cm wide, and striking long catkins in spring. This is a male clone, which bears far superior catkins to the dull green female in spring: red in bud, opening with bright yellow pollen, long and tapering.